As educators, we talk A LOT about data-informed practice and we use tools like test scores, grades, attendance statistics, graduation rates etc. to tell the story of our success, of what works, and what doesn't. But, when is the last time that you meaningfully asked an actual student what's working for them, what they like or don't like, or what motivates them? Often absent in our storytelling are our students' actual stories and apathy is rooted in exclusion! In this session a group of 8 high school students will tackle big questions like these, giving you candid insight into how they're experiencing education: what strategies work, what strategies don't, what matters to them, what do they wish educators knew?
As educators, we talk A LOT about data-informed practice and we use tools like test scores, grades, attendance statistics, graduation rates etc. to tell the story of our success, of what works, and what doesn't. But, when is the last time that you meaningfully asked an actual student what's working for them, what they like or don't like, or what motivates them? Often, absent in our storytelling are our students' stories! In this session a group of 6 middle school students will tackle big questions like these, giving you candid insight into how they're experiencing education: what strategies work, what strategies don't, what matters to them, what do they wish educators knew?
Students cannot succeed in systems they do not understand. Too often, standards remain abstract, expectations are unclear, and students are left guessing what success looks like. This session explores how our school is transforming instruction by making learning visible through proficiency scales, Marzano’s mastery approaches, and competency-based practices. Supported by initiatives such as NASoT and the Golden LEAF Grant, this work focuses on one essential goal: clarity for every student. Participants will see how standards are unpacked into clear learning progressions, how expectations are communicated in student-friendly language, and how classrooms are shifting toward ownership and growth. Aligned with The Power of Our Stories, this session highlights how clarity changes the student experience—building confidence, increasing engagement, and creating more equitable learning environments.
Instructional Technology Facilitator, Swain Middle School (Swain County Schools)
My name is Heather Payne Herron, and I am an Instructional Technology Facilitator at Swain Middle School in Bryson City, North Carolina. A proud graduate of Swain County Schools, I have spent all 33 years of my teaching career serving the students of Western North Carolina. I began my journey teaching 5th grade... Read More →
TRiO programs rode a federal roller coaster throughout 2025 and it may not be over yet. At times, our communities and representatives have come dangerously close to losing sight of what these programs are, what they do, and the life-changing impact they can have. In this auto-biographical session, the speaker will guide you through her own life's journey as a first-generation, low-income student from rural Madison County, vulnerably sharing the obstacles she faced and the ways that TRiO programs helped her build a better future, both for herself and for the future students she would eventually be called to serve as a college access advisor. Along the way, she'll support her personal narrative with data and statistics about TRiO programs (GEAR UP, Upward Bound, McNair Scholars, Talent Search, Student Support Services, etc.), painting a full picture of TRiO's value and openly discussing what the future might hold.
